What we know now: findings from dependency mediation research

Source: (2009) Family Court Review, vol. 47. 21-37.

After approximately 15 years of research on court-based dependency mediation programs, answers have emerged for many, but not all, of the questions that surround dependency mediation. This article explores what has been learned about court-based dependency mediation through research and what new and persisting questions remain. The article reviews empirical studies of child protection mediation. The topics considered include what we have learned about the organization and structure of mediation programs, what have we learned about
settlement in mediation, and whether there are benefits to mediation beyond the mere fact that settlements are reached. (excerpt)